Chocolate Bread Pudding

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. 2
   Grease 1 6-cup loaf pan, 9 1/4 X 5 1/4 X 2 1/2 inch, with butter.
3. 3
   In a large saucepan, over medium heat, add the half and half. When the cream comes to a gentle boil, whisk in 1 cup of the chocolate chips, whisking constantly until all the chips have melted and are incorporated into the cream, remove from heat.
4. 4
   Whisk the eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and Grand Marnier together, in a large mixing bowl until very smooth.
5. 5
   Add the egg mixture to the cream mixture and mix well.
6. 6
   Add the bread, incorporate thoroughly and let the mixture sit for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7
   Pour half of the mixture into the prepared pan.
8. 8
   Sprinkle the top with the remaining chocolate chips.
9. 9
   Pour the remaining bread mixture over the chocolate chips.
10. 10
    Bake until the pudding is set in the center, about 55 minutes.
11. 11
    Let cool for 5 minutes.
12. 12
    To serve, cut the pudding into 1 inch thick slices.
13. 13
    Top with spiced cream, the recipe of which follows.
14. 14
    Makes 10 servings.